Quick answer: A small office solar system should be sized from measured demand, operating hours and the loads that must remain available during outages. Computers, routers, lights and security equipment are usually easier to support than air conditioners, water heaters and other high-load appliances.
Build a simple office load schedule
List equipment, quantity, rated watts and daily operating hours. Measure uncertain loads where possible. Mark critical circuits so the backup system does not waste battery energy on non-essential equipment.
Size the inverter
Add the simultaneous running load and allow for starting currents. The inverter should support the critical load continuously and have a suitable surge rating for motors and compressors.
Size solar and storage
Solar capacity should replace the energy used during the working day and recharge the battery within the available sunlight window. Storage should be based on the required backup hours, usable depth of discharge and expected cloudy periods.
Plan for growth
Allow spare capacity for additional computers, networking equipment or security systems, but avoid buying equipment that will remain permanently under-used. A staged design can be more practical.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should every office socket be backed up?
Not necessarily. Separating critical and non-critical circuits improves reliability and battery runtime.
Can solar run office air conditioning?
Yes, with a design that accounts for starting current, daily energy use, battery size and available solar generation.
Next step: SolarBoard Ltd can help you turn the guidance into a site-specific plan.
About SolarBoard Ltd: SolarBoard Ltd delivers solar power systems, backup power, security, safety, general contracting, consulting and training across Nigeria. Explore our energy solutions or contact our team for a site assessment.
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